FAQ-Clinical Psychology
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make an appointment to speak with someone/visit the department?
Potential applicants interested in our program are encouraged to visit our website for information. If you have additional questions, please contact Patricia Alexander at patricia.alexander@okstate.edu or (405)-744-7591. Due to the volume of inquiries we receive, we are unable to meet with current or future applicants until interview dates, which are held in early February each year. Applicants chosen for interviews will be notified soon after the application deadline. If invited to interview, please make arrangements to attend. You may also wish to contact faculty members who share research interests in order to inquire if they are accepting new graduate students, but again, most are unable to schedule personal meetings due to time constraints.
Can I complete the program part-time?
No. Our doctoral program is a full-time program and students are expected to be on campus throughout the week to attend classes, participate in research activities, clinical work, meetings, etc. We typically do not offer doctoral-level courses online or on weekends.
Can I complete this program from a distance/online?
No. The clinical psychology program requires full-time enrollment and on-campus presence. This is not an online program.
Do you have late admissions?
No. Our admissions committee works very quickly after the submission deadline to review applications. Any applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
Can I apply to your program if I just want a Master's degree?
No. Our program is structured as a PhD program and is not geared towards Masters-only students.
Do I need to send in official transcripts?
Students are required to upload official transcript(s) on the application website.
What materials need to be uploaded to the application?
The application asks that you upload official transcripts, a CV, personal statement, and a writing sample.
What should my writing sample consist of?
We require that you submit a paper representative of your writing abilities, preferably from an experimental psychology course, a convention paper presentation, or a manuscript submitted or accepted for publication. If one of these is not available, any paper from a psychology course will suffice. Please note, however, that the paper will be examined for evidence of both writing skills and research expertise.
How many letters of recommendation do you require?
Three
How do my recommenders upload their letters of recommendation?
After providing the name and information for recommenders, the graduate school will generate an email and send them all the information they need to provide their recommendations.
I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Is it possible to obtain credit for past coursework or have the thesis requirement waived?
Current students may make requests for recognition of departmental course equivalence and/or requests for waivers of departmental course requirements. These must be submitted to the faculty member who is responsible for the specific course for which you request a waiver. Students must discuss any transfer or waiver with their advisor and obtain their advisor’s approval before approaching the instructor for a particular course. For courses that meet departmental requirements, the student must obtain the instructor’s approval, then submit their request through the Departmental Office to the Department Advisory Committee for its approval. All requests must be submitted and approved by the Department Advisory Committee before the first week of the semester that the course is offered. Departmental core courses cannot be waived.
For clinical students who want consideration for previous course work to count in lieu of required clinical courses, the following procedure must be followed. First, the student and their designated academic advisor should discuss the benefits and drawbacks of waiving required clinical courses. Second, if there is agreement that a request to waive a specific course is reasonable, the student and advisor should jointly write a memo to the Director of Clinical Training to ask that the request be placed on the agenda for discussion by the Clinical Training Committee. This memo should attach a summary of previous training that is relevant to the request for waiver. Third, the Clinical Training Committee will review the request. Finally, if approved by the Clinical Training Committee, the student will meet with the course instructor to determine requirements for waiving the specified course. No more than three clinical courses may be waived.
In addition to receiving departmental acceptance of course equivalence, the Graduate College will accept toward a master’s degree up to nine semester credit hours taken at another accredited college or university offering a graduate program. The student must have been fully admitted to a degree program. Courses taken as a special student at another university will not be accepted by the Graduate College. The master’s thesis may be waived on a case by case basis after discussion with a student’s advisor.
I am interested in seeking assistantship aid. Do I need to upload any documentation confirming this?
Our program waives in-state and out-of-state tuition and fully funds all of the graduate students it accepts.
What is required of the personal statement? Is there an exact length requirement?
The psychology program does not require a specific length to their personal statements. As a general rule, they run about two to four pages in length. This statement should address (a) why you want to become a psychologist, (b) experiences you have had that enhance your psychology application, (c) future plans after you achieve the doctorate, (d) carefully chronicle any job experience in the helping professions, especially any jobs relating to mental health (Include both paid and volunteer experience in these areas).
Is it required to take the subject GRE?
No, we do not require the subject GRE. This year, the general GRE is also waived.
Which faculty are accepting students?
You can see which faculty are accepting students by looking at the list of faculty on the Clinical Program website (Faculty List). Under each faculty’s bio, you will see a statement indicating that they are or are not accepting students this year.
How long does it take to complete the program?
In the past 10 years, the average time it has taken to complete the program is 6 years (including internship). For more information, visit our Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data (AOOD) document on our website (Students Admissions and Outcomes 2021).
Is the program accredited?
The Oklahoma State University Clinical Psychology doctoral program has been accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1971 and is accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS).
Can I apply as an international student?
Yes!
The Clinical Psychology PhD Program follows the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology's (CUDCP) policy on admissions offers and acceptances. We also encourage you to review the CUDCP fact sheet on graduate programs in clinical psychology.
Visit Clinical Psych Grad School for more information on graduate education in psychology and mental health.
Licensure: Consumer Information Disclosure
The Clinical Psychology PhD Program in the Department of Psychology at Oklahoma State University provides education in Clinical Psychology that is compliant with national standards. The practice of psychology, however, is regulated at the state level, and may require training experiences and examinations beyond the educational and training requirements provided by the PhD program.
Oklahoma State University, to the best of its ability, determined that the curriculum offered by our Program meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification to practice psychology in each of the 50 states in the United States.
You are also encouraged to review the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards’ online tool, PsyBook (ASPPB), which summarizes requirements for most states and territories, and to contact the licensing authorities directly in the state for which you hope to get licensed.
Speech Communication Minor
Add a marketable, confidence-building, complementary minor to your degree program!
What is Speech Communication?
“Communication is the backbone of our society. It allows us to form connections, influence decisions, and motivate change. Without communication skills, the ability to progress in the working world and in life, itself, would be nearly impossible. Public speaking is one of the most important and most dreaded forms of communication.” PAN Communications, 2021
Dating back to ancient times when Romans and Greeks pondered the importance of the spoken word, the field of Speech Communication has evolved to focus on analyzing the components and skills that make for effective, competent communicators in a variety of diverse professional and personal settings. Speech communication does not just refer to public speaking, but it focuses on creating and utilizing messages to generate meanings in a variety of contexts and settings and involves several communication areas such as small group communication, interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, business and professional communication, persuasion, and nonverbal communication. Read more at https://www.natcom.org/about-nca/what-communication.
Who teaches Speech Communication courses?
Why should I minor in Speech Communication?
“Communication skills are needed in virtually any job. Employers desire team members who can successfully interpret what is being asked of them as well as effectively communicate with others. Common communication skills to include on your resume include writing, speaking, listening, and negotiating.” Indeed, 2020
One of the top requests of employers across the board is strong communication skills! A Speech Communication minor is a complement to practically any degree and serves as a tremendous benefit to help you stand out to employers. This minor will provide you with a foundation of communication knowledge, skills, and experiences to help you excel in your future work and social environments. In Oklahoma State communication courses, you will develop communication and intercultural competence, leadership, critical thinking, improved interpersonal skills and much more! Consider talking to your advisor about adding a Speech Communication minor today!
What courses will I take to earn a Speech Communication minor?
15 total hours required
Required Courses (9 hours):
SPCH 2713: Intro to Speech Communication (S) *Uses a FREE OER text!
SPCH 3733: Elements of Persuasion (S) *Uses FREE OER materials!
SPCH 4793: Nonverbal Communication (S)
Select 6 hours (2 courses) from the following:
SPCH 3703: Small Group Communication
SPCH 3723: Business and Professional Communication
SPCH 3743: Advanced Public Speaking
SPCH 4743: Problems of Interpersonal Speech Communication
SPCH 4753: Intercultural Communication (I) *Uses a FREE OER text!
PSYC 3033 Psychology of Humor (S)
PSYC 4163: Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination (D)
PSYC 4213: Conflict Resolution (S) *Uses FREE OER materials!
PSYC 4343: Language Development (S)
Which majors work well with a Speech Communication minor?
All majors! However, here are some specifics:
Business (Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Economics): Learn to disseminate ideas and communicate in ways that can lead to better business opportunities, strengthen professional relationships, and create better partnership opportunities.
Computer Science: Technology is an integral aspect to the human experience; bridge the gap between technology and humans through effective communication skills.
Education: Fine tune presentation skills and learn how to connect to diverse audiences, leading to better learning outcomes in the classroom.
Political Science: Learn how to listen, understand and respond effectively and engage critically with members of an audience.
Psychology: Connect the psychological aspects of how and why we communicate, and dive deeper into using this understanding to improve social relationships.
Science-Related Majors: Optimize use of communication to share research findings or to inform and educate peers, patients and the public regarding current trends in science-related fields.
Who do I contact with questions to learn more?
Please contact our Speech Communication Area Coordinator, Sasha Hanrahan, in 104B GAB, 405-880-2372 (text or call), sasha.hanrahan@okstate.edu or okstatespchcomm@gmail.com.
“Communication cuts across contexts and situations; it is the relational and collaborative force that strategically constructs the social world. Knowledge and understanding of communication and strong communication skills allow people to create and maintain interpersonal relationships; employers in all sectors seek employees with strong communication skills; and society needs effective communicators to support productive civic activity in communities.” - National Communication Association
Student Diversity Committee Practice ARC Podcast
About the Podcast
The Oklahoma State University Psychology Department's Student Diversity Committee was awarded funds from the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) to create a training tool for equity, inclusion, and justice in the clinical practice of psychology.
The training tool is a 6-part podcast series with supplemental resources entitled Practice ARC: Anti-Racism Clinically. This podcast is intended to introduce and expand on multicultural sensitivity in clinical training, practice, and supervision.
How to Use
Practice Anti-Racism Clinically (ARC) is a student-led podcast funded by APPIC that strives to educate and create conversation about anti-racism practices within the therapy setting.
Each episode has supplemental resources to learn more about the hosts, guests, and topics discussed. Importantly, supplemental materials have content to review before and after each episode. These materials can be utilized for individuals as well as group listeners. Each supplemental guide has three sections:
- Before You Listen prompts can be used to prepare listeners for the topic of each episode and to encourage listeners to reflect on their own identities or experiences.
- Episode Summaries recap the conversations and showcase another scholar or activist that the podcast guest admires and thinks is a change maker.
- After You Listen prompts conversations with others about the topic and provides journal prompts for individual self-reflection. Additionally, Action Items are provided, which are meant to extend the topic past the podcast episode and into daily life.
- Additional Resources and Further Readings provide readings, podcasts, and other resources that can continue to educate listeners on topics discussed during the podcast.
Episode 1: Defining Cultural Humility
Dr. Arredondo describes cultural competency development as a human development process, as well as a learning process of becoming more culturally competent. She posits that cultural competency development involves 1) self-awareness of our own values, our biases, our belief systems, our traditions, and our emotions, 2) Development of knowledge and context, 3) Clinical skills to use with our clients. Dr. Arredondo and the hosts further discuss the importance of recognizing intersecting identities of individuals and families that we work with.
Episode 1 Supporting Resources
Episode 1 Transcript
Episode 2: How to Practice with Cultural Humility
Dr. Han Ren discusses her conceptualization of cultural humility as a framework or lens she uses when conducting clinical work. Within this multicultural framework a key premise is to remember “I don’t know what I don’t know.” Dr. Ren and the hosts reflect on the importance of remaining open to recognizing - and admitting - when they don’t know something and how to seek out the knowledge or education necessary to provide culturally-appropriate care.
Episode 2 Supporting Resources
Episode 2 Transcript
Episode 3: Diving Deeper into Cultural Humility for Mid-Training Clinicians
Dr. Carmen Bell discusses the importance of using a biopsychosocial model in therapy to help clinicians conceptualize the client’s case while considering their background and what theories or treatments may be most beneficial to them. Dr. Bell and the hosts chat about assessing how strongly clients relate to or identify with their culture and the significance of educating yourself on hot-topics occurring within that culture. She also highlights the importance of asking questions regarding the client’s culture without burdening the client to teach the clinician about their culture.
Episode 3 Supporting Resources
Episode 3 Transcript
Episode 4, Part 1: Cultural Humility in Special Populations- Individuals with Disabilities
Dr. Brian Watermeyer shares his experiences related to cultural humility within the therapeutic relationship and the importance of not making assumptions about individuals with disabilities. Specifically, Dr. Watermeyer and the hosts discuss the importance of therapists addressing their own internal biases and fears related to acquiring a disability and how those biases can negatively impact clients’ care.
Episode 4, Part 1 Supporting Resources
Episode 4, Part 1 Transcript
Episode 4, Part 2: Cultural Humility in Special Populations- Children/Adolescents
Dr. Ijeoma Opara highlights critical considerations regarding cultural humility when working with children/adolescents and their families. She discusses how case conceptualization might differ across clients, as well as clients’ comfort disclosing personal information. In this conversation, eight strategies are offered for practicing cultural humility in the child/family therapeutic context, in addition to other considerations when working with different marginalized groups. Overall, Dr. Opara recommends working within the existing family structure to promote healing, while centering the client’s mental health in treatment.
Episode 4, Part 2 Supporting Resources
Episode 4, Part 2 Transcript
Episode 5: Cultural Humility in Supervision and Mentorship
Dr. Riana Anderson discusses areas for improving cultural humility within the hierarchical system of academia, namely among supervisors/mentors and trainees. She provides practical tools for translating missteps and good intentions into advocacy and meaningful change to ultimately cultivate an environment in which those who are most vulnerable can thrive. Recommendations include taking a diagnostic inventory of the respective training environment, treating education in cultural humility the same as other training content, and disclosing experiences of discrimination in academia as a way of prioritizing wellness among others.
Episode 5 Supporting Resources
Episode 5 Transcript
Episode 6: Bringing it Home – Panel Question & Answer Mini-Episodes
Drs. Brodt, Flores, Hollingsworth, Varela, and Wingate reflect on the topics discussed in previous episodes. They highlight ways in which their respective programs may implement some of the techniques discussed and provide listeners with additional steps that have been applied at their home institutions. Panelists emphasize goals their programs are working towards to improve DEI.
Episode 6 Supporting Resources
Dr. Brodt Transcript
Dr. Flores Transcript
Dr. Hollingsworth Transcript
Dr. Varela Transcript
Dr. Wingate Transcript
Our Team
Samantha Addante, M.S.
Déjà Clement, M.S.
Danielle Deros, M.S.
Delaney Dunn, M.S.
Gina Erato, M.S.
Kristin Fields, B.S.
Ian Jones, M.S.
Natalie Kierns, M.S.
Harley Layman, M.S.
Jennie Min, M.S.
Madison Stout, M.S.
Katie Traino, M.S.
Faculty Advisors
Patricia Alexander
Misty Hawkins, Ph.D.
Stephanie Sweatt, Ph.D.
LaRicka Wingate, Ph.D.
Where to Listen
Disclaimer:
The information contained in the multimedia content posted represents the views and opinions of the speakers and hosts and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions of APPIC, Oklahoma State University or hosts’ respective institutions.
Music Copyright Notes:
Coco Islands by Scandinavianz https://soundcloud.com/scandinavianz
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/3hEhxNp
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/JOhLI-e7Qk8
ABPsi OSU Student Circle
About OSU's ABPsi Student Chapter
- The Association of Black Psychologists at Oklahoma State University Student Circle is a student chapter with the mission to empower and equip all Black, African Americans, and other Minorities in Psychology. This Chapter promotes mental stability, success, and knowledge of various outlets and fields in psychology.
- The Chapter is organized to operate exclusively for educational purposes, networking and bonding opportunities, and career advancements, including but not limited to: Promoting and advancing minorities in Psychology, Influencing and affecting community change, and mental health, as well as developing workshops in which students will gain self-confidence, awareness, and advanced skills to be able to succeed in all current and future psychology endeavors.
- Looking for where to find more information about ABPsi, such as general body meetings and events?
- Instagram: abpsiokstate
- Twitter: @abpsiokstate
- Email: ABPsiOkstate@gmail.com
Want to Join ABPsi?
- To apply to become a member of the Association of Black Psychologists at Oklahoma State University, please download and complete this membership application.
- All completed forms must be submitted via email to ABPsiOkstate@gmail.com.
- The Membership dues are $5 per semester.
Curret Faculty Advisors and Current Officers
- Advisor: Dr. Laricka Wingate
- Advisor: Ms. Bianca Boyd
- President: De’Ja Broyles
- Vice- President: Semaj Clayton
- Treasurer: Michal Sutton
- Secretary: Halle Sanders
Frequently Asked Questions
- "Is ABPSI only for psychology majors?"
- No! Most members are psychology majors/minors and other related fields but we welcome any major!
- "Is ABPSI only for Black students?"
- No! We welcome all races, ethnicities, etc. to join
- "What kind of events does ABPSI have?"
- We have different types of events during the semester, some are educational, some open discussions, and also self-care/mental health events. To find out about the all events coming up check out our social media!
More Information
Want to know more about ABPsi? Please watch the video below, visit the OSU Diversity page by clicking here, or visit the Association of Black Psychologists' home webpage by clicking here.
Upcoming Events
